New Jersey, Sep 14: The feast of the Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary (Monti Fest) also known as the Harvesting Feast and above all “Family Feast” holds a primary importance in the lives of Konkan people."Belle Vision" in USA celebrated the Feast of the Nativity of Our Lady, Monti Feast on Saturday 8th of September 2012 along with the members, friends and well wishers. The celebration took place at the beautiful premises of Thomas Menezes in Closter, New Jersey at 3.30 p.m.
Large number of Konkani speaking families and friends from New England, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and far off places, assembled to participate in the celebration. The celebration commenced with a procession and the children offered flowers to Infant Mary and expressed their gratitude and love on behalf of the group that gathered to sing one voice “Sakkad Sangatha Melya”and "Moriyek Hogolsiam". This was followed by the blessing of the Kanshi. The Holy Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Maurice D’Souza, from Cleveland, Ohio and Rev. Fr. Arun Lobo from New York. In his homily in Konkanni Fr. Arun Lobo emphasized the important role of a Family in our life; how traditionally Mangaloreans celebrated the birth of Mother Mary as a Family Feast where all members join as a family in sharing the joy and happiness, this event brings. The choir which sang traditional konkani hymns was well orchestrated by Harman Mathias and Fredrick Fernandes.
Despite the tornado warning, weather forecast of rain and thunder showers, the outdoor mass was a great success with bright sunshine and cool breeze. The cultural events and games which were organized had to be called off due to the heavy downpour that followed thereafter. However, kids played indoor games and participated in the konkani learning initiative sprear headed by Bellevison USA.. Everyone enjoyed the fellowship meal (Novem Jevan) which included several types of vegetables along with Sannas, Pothrovde and Vorn which was prepared by all the families gathered for this occasion.
Thomas Menezes President of Belle Vision USA thanked the gathering for making the day a very special one and gratefully acknowledged the efforts of all who dedicated their precious time preparing the traditional 'Novem Jevan'.